One way to know if a particular scammer is prowling in your neighborhood is probably by reading about them in the news or seeing them in a TV news report. These reports could give you an idea of what these scammers look like or what are the things to be wary and watch out for.
Anti-virus software programs basically work similarly. When the vendors know of a new potentially threatening virus, they have a set of updated signature viruses that could include the new virus threat.
Scan and check, check and scan
Other ways and means for viruses to enter your personal computer is via floppy disks, web sites, email, CD-ROM as well as downloaded files.
As much as possible, all these avenues must be checked if they contain viruses or not.
For instance, prior to using a particular floppy disk, it must first be checked for any viruses.
Also, when downloading a specific file from the net, these must be checked for any viruses. Your own anti-virus software program usually allows you to specify and check these places for any viruses. They may also do this scan automatically.
Patch it now, patch it good
The instance your computer's system breaks down, do you have an idea on how you should restore its functions?
Many vendors have patches whose purpose is to fix any types of bugs. Usually, vendors offer patches that are free in their own web sites. When purchasing programs, it is a great idea if you ask the vendor how they supply patches.
Software vendor programs also have a service that allows you to a recall. Notices for patches could be received via e-mail through mailing list subscription. Through this service, one can easily learn computer problems even if you have yet to discover them and before any intruders could have the opportunity to exploit your computer's system. Scan your registry for free at
Be cautious when reading attachments via e-mail Always be careful when opening received e-mails that carry attachments. Sometimes, the potentially threatening messages could come from unsolicited e-mails.
To be able to determine if an email is safe or not, it would be best to conduct the following test and ask these questions: did someone you know send the email? Did you receive this e-mail before? Is the subject of the email described in a clear manner?
A suspicious e-mail usually reads as g.vbs. Worms could travel this way and reading / opening it could bring damage to your computer system.
All in all, caution and care is needed to be able to protect your computer from unnecessary attacks by malicious viruses and worms.
